Researchers have developed novel motors that twist like elephant trunks, providing a thousand times higher rotation per length than previous artificial muscles. The motors use carbon nanotube yarns and can accelerate a paddle up to 590 revolutions per minute, making them suitable for applications such as microfluidic pumps and mixers.
Differences in jet lag severity may be rooted in how the circadian clock sets itself, with advanced and delayed mechanisms differing at a molecular level. This finding could provide clues for understanding jet lag and offer potential remedies.
Researchers at the University of Washington and Kettering University have developed a tool to optimize grocery store display case designs, reducing energy consumption by up to 15%. The team tested various air curtain speeds, angles, and factors to minimize warm air infiltration into chilled compartments.
Researchers using new high-tech tools are rethinking early hominid diets, finding grasses and sedges as a primary food source for some species. This discovery forces anthropologists to reassess their understanding of ancient human ancestors.
Researchers at St. Michael's Hospital found that bilingual individuals have twice as much brain damage as unilingual people before they exhibit symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. This delay may be due to the constant activation and compensation of brain networks in bilingual individuals.
Researchers found that a specific enzyme, iNOS, plays a key role in the development of emphysema. Blocking this enzyme with an inhibitor can prevent disease progression. The study also shows promising results for reversing lung damage using this approach.
Washington University in St. Louis has been awarded a $2.2 million US Department of Energy grant to create a fuel-producing cyanobacterium using systems biology and synthetic biology approaches. The project aims to develop a novel organism that can efficiently produce fuels from sunlight, water, and CO2.
Researchers at WALTHAM Centre for Pet Nutrition found that a diet high in moisture boosts urinary tract health in cats by increasing daily water intake, urine volume, and dilution. This helps reduce the risk of urinary stone disease in cats.
Researchers found that fault surfaces in earthquake zones come into contact only at microscopic points between scattered bumps called asperities. This creates intense heating, known as flash heating, which can reach temperatures of up to 2,700 degrees Fahrenheit.
Researchers from UBC and international partners develop artificial muscles strong enough to rotate objects a thousand times their own weight, with the same flexibility as an elephant's trunk or octopus limbs. The new material is composed of carbon nanotube yarns that can twist and untwist, enabling rapid rotation and control.
The study found that Mile End's unique blend of industrial architecture, cultural diversity, and public spaces draws designers to the area. However, gentrification concerns arise as heritage preservation efforts and rising rents threaten the neighbourhood's character.
A study by researchers at Children's Hospital Boston and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute finds that deactivating the BCL11A protein can correct sickle cell disease in mice by activating fetal hemoglobin. The findings provide strong evidence that BCL11A could be a powerful treatment target for sickle cell disease and related blood disorders.
NASA's Aqua satellite captured images of the three tropical systems, showing Irwin still with strong convection but Jova without. The National Hurricane Center expects Irwin to become a remnant low within 24 hours.
Research suggests that human children exhibit a strong preference for working together to solve problems, with cooperation rates exceeding 78% compared to 58% for chimpanzees. This finding highlights a potential difference in motivation between humans and our primate cousins.
Black carbon particles emitted from human activities contribute to climate change by affecting air quality and public health. Dr. Akua Asa-Awuku will investigate the interactions between clouds and aerosols using the world's largest indoor atmospheric chamber.
Researchers confirmed that converting cow manure to electricity on farms is technically possible. However, the economic viability of such projects heavily depends on factors like government grants, subsidies, and premium paid for converted energy.
Around half of adults undergoing surgery for epilepsy are seizure-free after 10 years, with improved outcomes seen for those with anterior temporal resections. The study highlights the need for further improvements in presurgical assessment and surgical treatment to increase success rates.
A study from Northwestern University found that lower-income urban dads are involved in their children's health and encourage exercise and healthy eating, but also face challenges in handling emergency medical care. Fathers reported modeling behavior for their kids, such as exercising and playing, to promote healthy habits.
A small fossil fragment at London's Natural History Museum has been identified as part of the world's largest toothed pterosaur, reaching a wingspan of up to 7 meters. The discovery provides insight into patterns of evolution among extinct groups and sheds light on why some species achieved giant sizes.
A new type of vaccine based on proteins from the coccidiosis bug has been developed to protect chickens against the disease. The vaccine uses a protein called MIC3, which is secreted by the parasite and binds to sugar molecules on chicken cells.
A recent study found that public reporting of transplant centers' success rates has not improved care for patients, with wide gaps remaining between the best and worst clinics. The new method revealed that gaps persisted after public reporting was introduced in 2001, missing potential improvements in patient outcomes.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have developed virtual brain models that reveal structural differences among healthy and ill brains. The models show that complex network connections are associated with normal EEG patterns, while simpler networks are linked to neurological disorders such as epilepsy and schizophrenia.
Researchers have discovered a highly effective antibody that can neutralize approximately 70% of globally circulating HIV strains by targeting the virus's envelope protein. The new findings suggest a promising target for AIDS vaccine development, with potential implications for broadening the protection against the fast-mutating virus.
A French study found that slow information diffusion within farmer communities leads to significant delays in implementing pest management procedures. The study used a modeling framework combining social and ecological perspectives to predict the efficiency of such programs.
Researchers create entirely new platform for developing antimalarial drugs, focusing on quirk in plasmodium infection process. The goal is to design 'tailored inhibitors' that block crystal surface growth and prevent malaria spread.
The US Army has awarded a $1.5 million cooperative research agreement to Virginia Tech's Arlington Innovation Center for neuroimaging studies of human performance and sleep regulation. The project aims to use advanced imaging techniques to better understand the brain's role in sleep, stress, and mood.
Scientists have identified a key player in regulating fetal hemoglobin levels, paving the way for new treatments of sickle cell disease. Silencing a specific protein called BCL11A can reactivate fetal hemoglobin production, effectively reversing the condition in adult mice.
Efficient stoves could save nearly 2 million lives each year by reducing respiratory disease and deforestation. Women and children are disproportionately affected by inefficient stoves due to their role in gathering fuel.
The article discusses how modern computer technology has expanded the ability to discover new mathematical results, enabling the exploration of complex patterns and relationships. Computer simulations have been used to explore various mathematical problems, including Giuga's Conjecture, providing empirical evidence in favor of its truth.
A study analyzing 500 organic substances in four major European rivers reveals that 38% are present in concentrations potentially affecting organisms. Most pesticides, not currently on the EU's list, pose a risk to aquatic ecosystems.
Researchers can create new materials with distinct electrical, optical, and mechanical properties using self-assembly processes. These developments have the potential to tackle challenges in catalysis, medical sensing, and other fields.
Studies followed children from 6 months to age 3, finding that those who would later develop autism exhibited distinct behaviors at 12 months, including joint attention and imitation issues. Early intervention techniques are being developed to address these signs, with promising early results.
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases has awarded five-year contracts totaling $150 million to develop broad-spectrum therapeutics against multiple types of bacteria and viruses. The development focuses on creating products that can be stockpiled to protect the public in bioterror attacks or public health crises.
The US Department of Energy has activated an ultra-high speed network connection at 100 gigabits per second, enabling researchers to share data up to 10,000 times faster than a typical home Internet connection. This technology has the potential to revolutionize internet innovations and pave the way for widespread commercial use.
Scientists have uncovered evidence of a powerful new genetic network that drives cancer development and normal growth, involving RNA molecules interacting with each other. The discovery may lead to new therapeutic possibilities by rewiring the crosstalk between RNAs for cancer prevention and therapy.
Researchers have identified a toxin called SElX released by MRSA that triggers an extreme immune response. By targeting this toxin, it may be possible to prevent severe infections and high fever associated with MRSA.
A QUT program trains nurses to provide end-of-treatment care plans for cancer patients, reducing the need for ongoing information and emotional support. The intervention also leads to lower proportions of patients requiring emotional support and improved GP feedback on care plans.
Research published in Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology found that current definitions for miscarriage diagnosis can lead to incorrect diagnoses. The studies also revealed a 20% variation in gestational sac sizes reported by different clinicians, which can cause false conclusions about pregnancy growth.
The Autism Speaks BGI collaboration aims to generate the world's largest library of sequenced genomes of individuals with autism spectrum disorders. The initiative will perform whole genome sequencing on over 2,000 participating families and collect data from China.
A study of 300 post-menopausal women found that obesity was associated with improved cognitive performance, particularly in memory and language tasks. The researchers propose that estrogen released from fat cells may play a protective role in preserving cognition.
Virginia Tech's Virginia Tech Knowledge Networks (VTKN) accelerates science, technology education & research by leveraging data mining & authorship network visualizations. The platform provides community memory for faculty members to build on prior work, revealing potential collaborations and novel outcomes.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology developed a model that can be added to existing climate simulations, showing insoluble dust particles form more droplets than thought. This discovery could improve the accuracy of regional climate models, especially in areas with significant amounts of mineral aerosols.
Researchers develop a general model of disinhibition, which occurs when inhibitory forces are temporarily removed, allowing initial impulses to be expressed. This can result in pro-social or anti-social behavior depending on the context.
A study published in American Sociological Review found that teenage drinking habits are influenced more by their date's friends than their own. The presence of prior drinking among the friend increases the odds of future binge drinking by 80%, while the date's drinking habits have a lower impact, increasing binge drinking by 32%.
Researchers identified a strategy of prevention that has evolved to compensate for the inefficiency of NMD by decreasing the frequency of nonsense errors. Human genes preferentially encode codons less likely to be mistranscribed into premature STOP codons, improving robustness to transcriptional errors.
A team of researchers at WALTHAM found that neutered female kittens consumed more food and gained more body weight than their entire littermates. The study suggests that portion control is crucial for maintaining healthy weight in neutered kittens.
Limited evidence underpins current ultrasound test for miscarriage diagnosis, prompting calls for large-scale study to ensure accuracy. Gaps in existing guidelines and concerns over misdiagnosis highlight urgent need for research prioritization.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine have identified a specific variant of the opioid receptor that mediates itch and found a way to block it without interfering with pain relief. This breakthrough discovery has significant implications for treating opioid-induced itching in cancer, surgery, and chronic pain patients.
Astronomers use Hubble's unprecedented precision to map dark matter in 25 massive galaxy clusters, challenging previous assumptions about its distribution. The survey's findings suggest that galaxy cluster assembly may have begun earlier than previously thought.
The Terry Fox Research Institute is funding a $5-million program to develop new biomarkers and treatments for ovarian cancer. The program aims to identify new approaches to diagnose and manage the disease, which currently affects one in four women diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
Scientists at the University of Strathclyde have developed a new test to identify the manufacturers of designer 'legal high' drugs, including bath salts. The test uses isotope ratio mass spectrometry to reveal the course of a drug's manufacture and trace back its starting materials.
Researchers found that meerkats can distinguish between individual calls in their species, contrary to previous assumptions. Meerkat colonies are highly organized and divide work into three roles, with this vocal recognition ability linked to auditory cues.
A team of scientists has successfully demonstrated a computer's ability to analyze raw experimental data from a biological system and derive the basic mathematical equations that describe its operation. This achievement marks one of the most complex scientific modeling problems solved completely from scratch by a computer.
Researchers at EPFL discover that specific genes, known as Hox, are involved in this process, situated one after the other on the DNA strand. The genes unfold like an old-fashioned computer punchcard, delivering instructions for each new layer of the embryo to be built.
A recent study found that severe droughts and changes in water tables have pushed aquatic desert ecosystems into catastrophic regime change, resulting in the loss of some species and a shift towards smaller, shorter-lived insects.
Researchers found that green vegetables stimulate a key immune system function by regulating cell surface proteins in the gut and skin. This helps maintain healthy intra-epithelial lymphocytes (IELs), which are crucial for fighting off infections.
Research by University of Kansas social psychology professor Omri Gillath suggests that economic hardship can lead men to adopt short-term mating strategies, increasing their chances of reproduction. In low survivability conditions, men become more interested in sex and are more likely to pursue multiple partners.
A new study published in BMC Public Health found that never-married men have a significantly higher risk of dying from cancer compared to their married counterparts. The difference in mortality between married and never-married men has increased over the past 40 years, with the gap growing from 18% to 35% for men.
Scientists are flying a suite of scientific instruments over Antarctica's land and sea ice to study changes in key features like Pine Island Glacier. The mission aims to build a record of change and understand how ice sheets contribute to sea-level rise.
A study published in Current Biology found that human children consistently chose to cooperate with others over working alone, whereas chimpanzees showed no such preference. The researchers suggest that this behavioral difference may be rooted in small motivational differences between humans and other species.
A recent USDA study reveals that new varieties of broccoli retain the same levels of calcium, copper, iron, and other minerals as older cultivars, despite significant improvements in quality. The research suggests that breeders can rely on these nutrient levels when developing future broccoli strains.
Researchers designed a synthetic genetic circuit that creates a striped pattern, using genes from one species of bacterium and inserting them into another. By controlling the rate at which cells move, they can create distinct patterns with concentric rings of crowded and dispersed bacterial cells.
Scientists at the University of Rochester Medical Center have improved upon their previous efforts to isolate stem cells for treating multiple sclerosis and rare childhood diseases. The new method resulted in a four-fold increase in myelin coating, making these cells promising candidates for future clinical trials.
Researchers at the University of Southampton have made a significant breakthrough in understanding Chlamydia trachomatis genetics, enabling the development of new treatments and potentially a vaccine. This breakthrough could lead to improved treatment options for the disease, which is often left untreated due to its asymptomatic nature.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a method to build crystalline materials from nanoparticles and DNA, allowing for the creation of new materials with predictable physical properties. The design rules enable controlled crystallization, resulting in a variety of structures with unique properties.
Researchers found that red-bellied piranhas produce three distinct sounds: a barking noise, a drum-like percussive sound, and a softer 'croaking' sound. The fish's swim bladder vibrates in response to muscle contractions, producing these sounds.
Scientists call for increased awareness, global accounting, and technological innovation to address the potential social consequences of phosphorus scarcity. The element's pivotal role in fertilizer production and its impact on food security are highlighted as key concerns.
A study by Brigham Young University found that materialistic couples score lower on marriage stability and conflict resolution than non-materialistic couples. Couples where both partners are materialistic experience eroding communication and poor conflict resolution.
Archaeologists have discovered a 100,000-year-old ochre toolkit and workshop at Blombos Cave in South Africa. The findings suggest that early humans had the conceptual ability to source, combine, and store substances for social practices, demonstrating an elementary knowledge of chemistry.
A three-step strategy for healthy bones and strong muscles is promoted by the International Osteoporosis Foundation, involving vitamin D intake, adequate calcium and protein in diet, and daily weight-bearing and muscle strengthening exercise. These components work together to optimize bone health and reduce falls and fractures in seniors.
Researchers aim to develop rescue treatments within hours of exposure to toxic gases like mustard gas and chlorine gas. The goal is to prevent or limit progressive damage to airways and skin, as well as clear blockage of airways.
An international research project led by ONR aims to improve long-range weather forecasts and seasonal outlooks by studying the Madden-Julian Oscillation in the Indian Ocean. The study will provide valuable insights into climate modeling and refine global climate computer models.
A new study by University of Miami researchers found that binge drinking increases with rising state-level unemployment rates, affecting all population subgroups. Additionally, employed individuals are more likely to experience problematic drinking due to psychological factors like job insecurity.
A new study published in Immunity reveals that preventing necroptosis in keratinocytes is crucial for preventing skin inflammation. The research found that sensitization of keratinocytes to RIP3-mediated cell death triggers skin inflammation, which could be linked to various chronic or acute skin conditions.
A 12-year study found that future forests can grow faster under elevated carbon dioxide levels, outpacing assumptions of reduced growth due to climate change. The increased growth is sustained by enhanced soil nitrogen cycling and a greater ability for trees to absorb nitrogen from the soil.
Post-menopausal women experiencing new onset breast tenderness after starting combination hormone therapy may have an increased risk of breast cancer compared to those without breast tenderness. Higher breast density is associated with a higher risk of breast cancer, with extremely dense breasts posing a four to six times higher risk.
A $9.8 million program led by the University at Buffalo will provide professional development opportunities for 48 teachers in Buffalo Public Schools, focusing on interdisciplinary research and inquiry-based curricula. The goal is to improve teacher retention and student success in science, technology, engineering, and math.
The American Physiological Society's conference highlights the importance of considering sex and gender in cardiovascular health. Research findings show that women accumulate plaque more evenly inside major arteries, making heart disease a significant concern for women.
In a cooperative breeding system, cichlid males who sire offspring defend more effectively against predators and stay closer to the breeding shelter. Subordinate males' helping behavior is linked to direct fitness benefits, including paternity and increased safety.
Researchers developed a brain scan method to quickly test whether drugs increase dopamine levels, alleviating attention deficits in mice with neurofibromatosis type 1. The technique may lead to matching specific treatments to patients with NF1 and attention deficit disorders.
A global team of scientists has identified a natural mutation in Clostridium difficile that causes the bacterium to produce hypervirulent strains resistant to antibiotics, leading to severe bowel infections.
Researchers found that nasal congestion is linked to sensory feedback from airflow, affecting temperature and humidity. Studies suggest using optimal conditions to restore nasal airflow may help alleviate congestion.
Researchers at University of Notre Dame engineer a new way to inhibit allergic reactions by introducing a special molecule that outcompetes allergens for mast cells. This approach prevents allergic reactions from occurring in the first place without suppressing the entire immune system.
A nationwide study of over 17,000 dogs and 6,000 cats found that including commercial dry food in their diet improved oral health compared to home-prepared alternatives. Daily tooth brushing or dental chews also showed significant benefits.
A new study found that patients who visited physical therapists directly had fewer visits and lower overall costs, while maintaining continuity of care. The study analyzed 62,707 episodes of physical therapy and suggested eliminating physician referral requirements for physical therapist services.
A new study proposes using a theory called awareness development to assess employees' responses to situations and help HR departments craft effective workplace violence policies. Most organizations fall into the intellectualization stage, indicating limited awareness of workplace violence issues.
Researchers have discovered that lab-grown embryonic stem cells express the protein Blimp1, which represses differentiation and enables them to form cells of almost any type. This finding could help inform the development of induced pluripotent stem cells, a new type of stem cell derived from adult cells.
A recent study by researchers at USC and other universities found that substantive efforts to repair trust, such as apologies and commitments to reform, are critical in regaining trust. The study showed that nothing beats showing true contrition in winning back trust.
Researchers successfully used induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells to treat a mouse model of a rare genetic liver disease. The study demonstrates the potential for iPS cells to be used in human gene therapy to counter pathological effects and promote liver regeneration.
CONRAD will develop and test the safety and effectiveness of a combined contraceptive barrier and HIV-prevention product, supported by a $2 million USAID award. The study aims to provide women with non-hormonal, easy-to-use methods for preventing unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.
Researchers have developed a method to grow cardiac muscle cells from human cord blood stem cells, which could lead to new treatment options for patients with damaged hearts. The study found that these cells can be expanded and differentiated into cardiomyocyte-like cells, overcoming the technical hurdle of deriving cardiac muscle-type...
A Stanford University study demonstrates that indigenous peoples can collect reliable environmental data through training and collaboration with scientists. The researchers trained over 340 villagers in methods of collecting field data, and found that the accuracy of their data was comparable to that of trained scientists.
The Murcian flower has been studied in detail for the first time in nearly a century. Researchers have found that it is critically endangered due to low reproductive success and high mortality rates during the seedling stage. A restoration plan is underway to preserve this unique species.
Researchers have corrected sickle cell disease in adult mice by activating the production of fetal hemoglobin, a protein that reduces the tendency of sickle hemoglobin to change red blood cells. This approach builds upon earlier studies and offers a new target for future therapies.
A Penn State University study analyzed tweets about the H1N1 vaccine to track vaccination rates and attitudes. The research found patterns that correlate vaccination rates with geographic location and sentiment trends over time. This analysis could be used strategically to develop targeted public health initiatives.
A new scheme, 'coherent photon conversion', offers a method for coherent conversion between different photon states using a strong laser field. This approach promises to solve open challenges in optical quantum computation and lead to the development of a nonlinear optical quantum computer.
Researchers discovered three bile acids produced by gut bacteria that influence statin effectiveness in lowering cholesterol. This finding supports the role of the gut microbiome in drug response and metabolism, opening new avenues for targeted therapies and diagnostics.
A Penn team has identified a key connection between genetic risk factors for schizophrenia and altered sound processing in the brain. By studying mice with a mutated dysbindin gene, they found reduced activity in specific nerve cells that control fast brain activity, leading to symptoms of schizophrenia.
The HybridSil Fire/Blast coating is a game-changer for military applications, offering blast- and fire-resistance to various surfaces. It was developed by ONR scientist Dr. Roshdy George S. Barsoum and can be applied like paint, with minimal surface preparation.